Democrats Increasingly Question Biden's 2024 Viability Amid Campaign Struggles

 Joe Biden affirmed his commitment to uniting America and his readiness for a second term during a campaign stop in Pennsylvania on Sunday. Despite his confidence, the number of prominent Democrats questioning his role as the presumptive party nominee continues to grow amid a campaign facing significant challenges.

Following a lackluster debate performance against Donald Trump last month and an underwhelming ABC interview last week, pressure on Biden increased. On Sunday, a group of Democratic representatives met online with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries to discuss their concerns.

Among those reportedly urging Biden to step down were Congressmen Jerry Nadler of New York and Jamie Raskin of Maryland. As Congress reconvenes on Monday, discussions are expected to intensify, with House Democrats planning to meet Jeffries on Tuesday to further deliberate on Biden's candidacy.

In a fresh effort to rally support, Biden visited Philadelphia, where he addressed a church congregation, emphasizing the need to reunite the country. He stated, “We must unite America again ... that’s my goal. That’s what we’re going to do.”

Prominent House Democrat Adam Schiff suggested that Vice President Kamala Harris could be a strong candidate against Trump and urged Biden to consider passing the torch if he cannot secure a decisive victory. Schiff emphasized the importance of overwhelming success or stepping aside for someone who can achieve it.

Reports emerged that representatives, including Mark Takano of California, Adam Smith of Washington state, Jim Himes of Connecticut, Joe Morelle of New York, and Susan Wild of Pennsylvania, expressed their desire for Biden to withdraw from the race. Many advocated for Harris to take over as the nominee.

During his address in Philadelphia, Biden was met with a mixed reception. Senior Pastor Louis Felton praised Biden, calling him a president of vision and integrity, while a demonstrator outside held a sign reading, “Thank you Joe, but time to go.”

Biden later traveled to Harrisburg, where he joked about his nickname "Dark Brandon" and reaffirmed his commitment to the job. As he departed for the White House, he confidently stated, “I’m up for the job,” responding to concerns about his readiness.

Meanwhile, Mark Warner, a prominent Democrat and US senator from Virginia, is reportedly organizing a group of Senate Democrats to urge Biden to reconsider his candidacy.

On Sunday, Schiff highlighted the importance of addressing concerns raised by Biden’s recent performances. He emphasized that the president must demonstrate his capability to dispel doubts and suggested that Harris could potentially win overwhelmingly if she became the party nominee.

Bernie Sanders, the independent US senator from Vermont, expressed continued support for Biden but acknowledged his age and communication challenges. Sanders urged Biden to focus on policies that benefit working-class voters and take on corporate America.

Democratic US senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut stated that time is running out for Biden to address these doubts, emphasizing the critical nature of the upcoming week for his campaign.